Charging merchandise items

ABSTRACT

Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/752,198, filed Apr. 1, 2010; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/693,352, filed Mar. 29, 2007, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,701,339; which claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/787,864, filed Mar. 31, 2006; the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The current invention relates generally to displaying items formerchandising purposes, and more specifically, to a system and methodfor displaying items on a counter or other structure in a commercialenvironment and providing a graphic display of information relating tothe items at the counter or other structure so that persons approachingor touching such items can receive information relevant to the itemwhile protecting the item from theft.

2. Description of Related Art

The surveillance of freely presented objects to protect them againsttheft by means of a sensor that is connected to a monitoring and alarmdevice via an electrical line is known in the art. Such items arecommonly displayed on a counter or other structure for viewing byprospective buyers. When the line or the anti-theft installation ismanipulated or the sensor is removed, the monitoring and alarm devicesets off an audible and visual alarm. Moreover, sales-promoting systemsare known using, for example, endless-loop audiovisual advertising.However, they suffer from the disadvantage of not allowing perfectlytimed advertising geared to the specific information needs, accordinglyresulting in high coverage losses. It has been proposed to provide amethod and apparatus of the type initially referred to which enablesspecific product-related advertising while at the same time providingfor reliable surveillance of the displayed object and requiring acomparatively small outlay, particularly in equipment and installation,by providing an audible alarm at the counter or a visual alarm at thedisplay device when the item is attempted to be removed. The productinformation about the item on display is by means of audiovisual devicessince this allows comprehensive information in a particularly intensive,fast and effective way. The audiovisual product information may beoutput preferably by means of a product information device including avideo data base with a digital player and a connected visual displayunit for visual display, and as the case may be, a loudspeaker and/orheadset for listening.

Typically, a free presentation includes a plurality of objects. When, asa further action, events are counted and/or date and/or time of the dayare saved, the detections may be stored with date and time of the dayfor later reference in statistical analyses in order to obtaininformation about the attractiveness of the object put on display. Forthis purpose, the monitoring and alarm device includes a storage memoryfor storing the event count and/or date and/or time of the event.

In the absence of a current event being detected, no product-relatedpromotion will be shown. Instead, general advertising may be shown inthe meantime which may include manufacturer advertising of the displayedobject or market advertising. These advertising periods as well as theaforementioned statistical data obtained may be evaluated and/or sold tothe manufacturers, for example.

More particularly, electronic products in the fields of informationtechnology and audio/video equipment are, as a rule, freely presented insubstantial quantities. When a theft alarm is set off, it is thereforedifficult to locate the site of the theft promptly.

Therefore, it may be useful when, in the case of a theft, an audiblealarm is set off and an at least visual alarm concerning the object tobe secured is produced by the device provided for audiovisual productinformation.

In the case of a theft alarm, it is possible to output on the visualdisplay unit associated with the stolen object a product-related alarmnotification thereby enabling the site of the theft to be locatedpromptly. Using the same infrastructure, it is also possible to placethe freely presented items under surveillance allowing a fast,product-related visualization of the alarm on the one hand and promotionof the items on the other hand which results in significant costreductions in investment and the obtainment/sale of statistical data.The logging sensor is also capable of tripping further promotionalactions including, for example, actions that also address the remainingsense organs, such as scents, wind and the like. The sensor of thelogging device may be a motion sensor. It operates to start the productinformation when a prospective buyer approaches or stands in front ofthe item on display. No additional action is required in this case.However, the possibility also exists for the sensor of the loggingdevice to be a removal sensor. In this event, the product information isnot started until the prospective buyer takes the item in his/her hand,showing an apparent interest in it. False activations that may be causedby a passing customer are thereby avoided. In either event, the productinformation is activated when the prospective buyer is within apredetermined range in the region of the displayed item.

The sensor of the logging device may be a switch, particularly amechanical, capacitive, inductive, optoelectronic, or magnetic switch.Particularly advantageously, the sensor of the logging device is part ofthe anti-theft sensor arrangement, because this enables multiple use tobe made of existing equipment. Moreover, the anti-theft sensorarrangement preferably includes a sensor affixed to the item to besecured, which sensor is connected to the monitoring and alarm devicethrough a cable wound on a cable retractor, with the sensor of thelogging device being configured to detect when the wound-up cable isbeing pulled off the cable retractor. The cable retractor provides for a“neat” presentation. The sensor may be configured as a magnetic switchcomprising a reed contact mounted on the enclosure of the cableretractor and a magnet fitted to the pull-out type cable. In thisarrangement, it is suitable for the magnet fitted to the cable to beconstructed as a cable stop resting against an abutment with the cablein roughly wound-up condition. Such a sensor arrangement affords, amongother things, the advantage of being able to be retrofitted with ease.

While the aforementioned apparatus and method are primarily concernedwith the securing of items of merchandise, they may also find utility inexhibitions and galleries, for example, to provide the viewer withexplanations/information, and on the other hand, in the securing of theexhibits, such as paintings, against theft. The theft detection sensormay be affixed preferably to the frame or the like while the loggingsensor is preferably a motion sensor that, on recording a viewer'spresence, starts the output of information.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while theforegoing proposed method and apparatus appears generally suitable forits purposes, it still leaves something to be desired from thestandpoint of effective advertising and promotion of the items. In thisregard, while the provision of an audible alarm at the counter (or evena visual alarm on the display device on or adjacent the counter) mayhave the effect of deterring or preventing theft, it creates a negativeatmosphere (e.g., other potential customers in the vicinity of thedisplay may be frightened or otherwise put off by a sounding alarmindicating a theft has occurred). Thus, there is a need in the art for asystem and method which provides the advantages of enabling persons toreadily examine an item and receive information relevant to that itemwhen they pick up or touch the item, while protecting the item againsttheft by producing a wireless signal to authorized personnel locatedremotely from the display.

All references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference intheir entireties.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, there is provided asystem for displaying an item and providing promotional material aboutthe item on a graphic display in a commercial environment. The item islocated on a counter or other structure in the commercial environment toenable persons to approach and examine the item at that counter or otherstructure.

The system comprises an event sensor associated with the item, amonitoring and alarm apparatus and a product information device (e.g., agraphic display). The event sensor (e.g., a retractable tether or cablewith cooperating sensors, or non-contact sensors such as proximitysensors, motion detection sensors, etc.) detects the manipulation of, orapproach of a user to, the item, and wherein the event sensor is coupledto the monitoring and alarm apparatus. The event sensor emits a sensorsignal to the monitoring and alarm apparatus corresponding to themanipulation of, or approach of a user to, the item. The productinformation device (e.g., a graphic display) is arranged to receive anactivation signal from the monitoring and alarm apparatus when a userapproaches or touches the item at the counter or other structure,whereupon the product information device provides visual information(and also may include audible information) relating to the item. Themonitoring and alarm apparatus ______ a transmitter which is arranged toautomatically provide a wireless signal in the event that a personremoves the item from the vicinity of the counter or other structure.The system also includes a receiver (e.g., a cellular telephones, etc.)located remotely of the counter or other structure. The receiver isarranged to receive the wireless signal to alert an authorized person ofthe removal of the item from the vicinity of the counter or otherstructure.

In accordance with a further aspect of this invention, the system alsoincludes the added feature that if the item is an electronic item (e.g.,cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks,camcorders, etc.), the system also provides power to the electronic itemwhile detecting the manipulation or removal of the electronic item.

In accordance with another aspect of this invention, it also provides amethod for displaying an item and providing promotional material aboutthe item on a graphic display in a commercial environment whiledeterring theft. The method includes displaying the item on a counter orother structure in the commercial environment to enable persons toapproach and examine the item thereat; detecting the manipulation of, orthe approach of a user to, the item and generating a graphic displayincluding visual or audible information relating to the item inautomatic response to a user approaching or touching the item at thecounter or other structure. This method includes automaticallytransmitting a wireless signal to a remote receiver (e.g., cellulartelephones, etc.) in the event that a person removes the item from thevicinity of the counter or other structure, the receiver being arrangedwhen it receives the wireless signal to alert an authorized person ofthe removal of the item from the vicinity of the counter or otherstructure.

In accordance with further aspects of this invention where the item isan electronic item (e.g., cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CDplayers, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.), the method also includesproviding power to the electronic item while detecting the manipulationor removal of the electronic item.

In accordance with a further aspect of this invention, there is provideda system for displaying an item and providing promotional material aboutthe item on a graphic display in a commercial environment, the itembeing located on a counter or other structure in the commercialenvironment to enable persons to approach and examine the item thereat.The system comprises: an event sensor coupled to an electronic item(e.g., cellular telephones, cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memorysticks, camcorders, etc.) via a tether for physically securing anelectronic item to the counter or other structure in the commercialenvironment to deter unauthorized removal of the item from the counteror other structure. The event sensor detects the manipulation of, orapproach of a user to, the electronic item, whereby the event sensor isalso coupled to a monitoring and alarm apparatus and wherein the eventsensor emits a sensor signal to the monitoring and alarm correspondingto the manipulation of, or approach of a user to, the electronic item.The system also includes a product information device arranged toreceive an activation signal from the monitoring and alarm apparatuswhen a user approaches or touches the item at the counter or otherstructure, whereupon the product information device provides visualinformation relating to the item; and wherein the tether comprises apower conductor and a sensor signal conductor, whereby the powerconductor and sensor signal conductors have ends that are containedwithin a power jack that couples to the electronic item for powering orcharging the electronic item at the counter or other structure.

In accordance with another aspect of this invention, there is provided amethod for displaying an electronic item (e.g., cellular telephones,cameras, portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.) andproviding promotional material about the electronic item on a graphicdisplay in a commercial environment. The method comprises: displayingthe electronic item on a counter or other structure in the commercialenvironment to enable persons to approach and examine the electronicitem thereat; powering or charging the electronic item at the counter orother structure; detecting the manipulation of, or the approach of auser to, the item; and generating a graphic display including visual oraudible information relating to the item in automatic response to a userapproaching or touching the electronic item at the counter or otherstructure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more preferred embodiments that illustrate the best mode(s) areset forth in the drawings and in the following description. The appendedclaims particularly and distinctly point out and set forth theinvention.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate various example methods, and otherexample embodiments of various aspects of the invention. It will beappreciated that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groupsof boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of theboundaries. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that insome examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or thatmultiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, anelement shown as an internal component of another element may beimplemented as an external component and vice versa. Furthermore,elements may not be drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of one exemplary system for protectionagainst theft as well as for the automatic output of product informationconstructed in accordance with this invention and which carries out themethod of this invention;

FIG. 1A provides an exemplary product display (e.g., a camera display)using the system and method of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is an alternative exemplary system for protection against theftwhereby a non-contact sensor is used for detecting the manipulation andmovement of a product being protected using the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of an exemplary content managementstructure (CMS) for providing advertisement with the displayed product;

FIG. 3 depicts a powering feature of the system and method of thepresent invention for powering/charging electronic devices on displaywhile providing theft detection and product advertisement initiation;

FIG. 4 is a functional view of the powering/charging feature of thepresent invention whereby power/charge is provided to an electronic itemalong with theft detection and product advertisement;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary power jack for use inthe embodiment of FIG. 4 and shown in the unconnected condition; and

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the power jack of FIG. 5 shown inthe extended condition when connected to the electronic device.

FIG. 7 is illustrates an example method associated with chargingmerchandise Items.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the various figures of the drawing wherein likereference characters refer to like parts, there is shown in FIG. 1 asystem and method for displaying one or several items, or mobileelectronic devices (e.g., products such as cellular telephones, cameras,portable DVD/CD players, memory sticks, camcorders, etc.) so that peoplecan approach the counter or other structure where such items are beingdisplayed to examine them and to receive information about the item orhaving some relevance to the item via an associated graphics displaylocated at or adjacent the counter or other structure at which theitem(s) is(are) located. The display may include audible transducers forproviding sound with the visual display. FIG. 1A provides an exemplaryproduct display, counter or other display (e.g., a camera display) usingthe system and method of the present embodiment. In any case, the systemand method is arranged so that an alarm will be set off if the item(s)is attempted to be stolen. The system 1 shown in FIG. 1 thus serves thedual purpose of protecting items of merchandise put on display orobjects 2 against theft and performing a logging function when a personapproaches the object 2 or removes the object without taking it away.The portion of the system 1 that provides this dual function is known asa “contents management system” (CMS) that combines loss preventionfeatures with advertising. Alternatively, the CMS could be configured tojust provide advertising.

When a logging function is performed, at least one action, namely aproduct information about the object on display, is started. The objects2 (e.g. cell phones, cameras, etc.) are freely accessible to theprospective buyer in one or several display shelves 6. Depending on theconfiguration of the apparatus 1, up to 250 items may be subjected tosurveillance and presented by audiovisual devices. When a customer picksup a displayed product, an “event” gets triggered and a shortadvertisement is played out on monitor 15 (e.g., a TFT-monitor). By wayof example only, FIG. 2 depicts a functional diagram of a CMSadvertisement embodiment that uses a plurality of monitors 15A (e.g., aTFT-monitor) and video database and digital player 14A (e.g., DiGiViewerDV-325). Whenever a customer picks up a displayed product, an “event” istriggered and a short advertisement is played out at the TFT monitor 15Avia the VSO3 (e.g., a hardware controller) and a DiGiViewer (e.g., ahardware controller). The DiGiViewer stores the advertisements and theVSO3 provides the interface.

The apparatus 1 includes a theft detection sensor 3 that is affixed tothe object 2 to be secured and is connected to a monitoring and alarmdevice 4 by means of a cable 5. When the sensor 3 responds when removedfrom the object 2 or when the cable 5 is severed or manipulated, a theftalarm is produced. The monitoring and alarm device 4 comprises, amongother things, memory for event or occurrence counts (e.g., objectmanipulation), date and time of occurrence. A further improvement of thealarm device 4 is the provision of a transmitter 4A that provides awireless signal 100 to a store manager, a store employee's PDA (personaldigital assistant), cell phone 4B, other wireless receiver, or to asecure monitor that alerts the individual that a theft is in progress.The signal also provides identification of the item being stolen and itslocation in the retail establishment. Thus, instead of setting off ageneral alarm, a “silent alarm” or “specified alarm” is provided to theproper personnel who can take swift and appropriate action withoutalarming the other customers in the vicinity.

When a person approaches or removes the object 2 on display, this willbe recorded by a logging device, the ensuing action then being anaudiovisual product information. In the embodiment shown, the loggingdevice includes an “event” or “removal” sensor 7 which is in controllingcommunication with the monitoring and alarm device 4 provided asanti-theft device via a cable 8, so that both functions require only oneshared monitoring and alarm device. Although not shown, the monitors 15(or 15A) may be associated with I/O devices that the customer caninteract with and input particular information that can modify theadvertising experience for that customer. By way of example, the I/Odevice may include a card reader, (e.g., a membership card) that allowsthe CMS to customize the advertisement being played out to the customer.

The cable 5 connected to the theft detection sensor 3 is wound on acable retractor 9. The removal sensor 7 is configured to detect when thewound up cable 5 is being unwound from the cable retractor 9. In theembodiment shown, the sensor 7 is constructed as a magnetic switchhaving a reed contact 11 fitted to the cable retractor enclosure 10 aswell as a magnet 12 fitted to the pull-out type cable 5. The reedcontact is preferably embedded in plastic and may be mounted on or inthe cable retractor enclosure 10. A cable 8, formed by reed contactconductors 8A/8B, provide the monitoring and alarm device 4 with thereed contact 11 state. Aside from its function as a permanent magnet 12for switching the reed contact 11 as soon as the magnet 12 leaves itsposition of rest when the cable 5 is pulled out, causing the magneticfield at the reed contact 11 to be interrupted, the magnet 12 has theadded function of a cable stop for pull-relief of the cable 5 and theconnected sensor 3 in the rest position. In this arrangement, the magnet12 affixed to the cable 5 functions as a cable stop (orcable-restraining detent, whereby if the cable 5 is rolled completelyout, the magnet acts as a counter detent), resting in roughly wound-upcondition of the cable 5 against an abutment defined by the enclosure 10in this embodiment. It is particularly advantageous in this arrangementfor the sensor 7 (event sensor) to be retrofittable easily, to be alow-cost and sturdy item and to require little space.

Other possible “event” sensors may include optical or photosensors,motion sensors, inductive sensors, or even push button sensors (e.g.,for use on large electronic products such as washing machines, etc.; byway of example only, a customer may depress a button on the machine toinitiate product information). Furthermore, by way of example only,approximately 256 sensors can be used in one CMS network. To obtain thedual function of the CMS (e.g., loss prevention and advertisement),approximately 128 products can be secured and promoted at once. SixteenVSL units and 128 sensors are directed to the advertisement functionwhile 16 VSLs and 128 sensors are directed to loss prevention.

For presenting the objects 2 on display, product information devices 13are in controlling communication with the monitoring and alarm device 4.The product information device 13 contains a function block 14 with avideo data base and a digital player as well as a visual display unit15. The dashed lines indicates that plural, for example, ten, productinformation devices 13 may be connected to the monitoring and alarmdevice 4.

Depending on which removal sensor 7 was activated, the associatedproduct information is retrieved from the video data base and shown onthe visual display unit 15. A product information device 13 may beassigned to single objects 2 or a plurality, particularly a group, ofsimilar objects on display. How many objects 2 are allocated to aproduct information device 13 depends, inter alia, on the object size.For example, twenty five exhibits 2 may share one product informationdevice 13 with a video data base and a digital player as well as avisual display unit 15.

The modular design enables the apparatus 1 to be configured individuallyin conformity with the given conditions. Thus, an existing apparatus fortheft detection is readily extendable and with relatively little effortto include one or plural product information devices 13 and one orplural removal sensors 7, providing a system enabling the output ofspecific product information. On the other hand, the product informationdevice 13 or several such devices may also be used as standalone withone or several removal sensors 7.

FIG. 1B shows, in an alternative apparatus, an apparatus 1A, wherein anon-contact sensor, e.g., a proximity sensor 7A, is used rather than thetether or cable 5. Such a proximity sensor is placed in the neighborhoodof an object 2 to be protected and the separating distance between thisproximity sensor 7A and the object 2, or between the proximity sensor 7Aand an approaching person (not shown) is determined and stored. Themeasurement of the separating distance can be utilized for, among otherthings, the emission of a signal. This signal may activate anadvertising experience (visual and/or audible and/or tactile) regardinginformation corresponding to the object 2 being approached and/ormanipulated and/or a forewarning of a theft of the object 2. If theobject 2 is removed, and is positioned, for example, within a removaldistance of two meters, it is possible that a registration of thedisplacement can be given. Such a registration can be, for example, theactivation of an LED lamp (not shown, but in the vicinity of the displayshelf where the object 2 was originally placed), which informs theperson making the removal that his/her actions have been detected. If,for example, he/she removes the object 2 to a distance exceeding twometers, i.e., from the proximity sensor 7A, then this would be evaluatedas a theft and an alarm would be emitted to the business personnel. Uponthe approach of a person to the object 2, the possibility exists thatsimultaneously with the forewarning of a possible theft, the informationpertaining to the state of the object 2 could be emitted. The proximitysensor 7A can also be so designed, so that it would react to anytouching or disturbance of the protected object 2. The emission of asignal can, in this way, be released by an approach to, removal of, ordisturbance of the protected object 2.

In particular, the proximity sensor 7A comprises an antenna 17 or thelike, which serves as a detection element. The antenna 17 can beintegrated with a monitoring and alarm apparatus 4 via a receiver 16.The antenna 17 is placed behind the object 2 to be protected and/or evenbehind the presentation display shelve 6.

The proximity sensor 7A serves for the capture of the separatingdistance from the antenna 17 of the proximity sensor 7A between a person(not shown) and/or the object 2 to be protected itself and/or anothersensor 3A placed on the object 2. In this way, it is possible that inconnection with the proximity sensor 7A the monitoring and the alarmapparatus 4 can be adjusted for signaling upon an approach, fordisturbance of the object, or for the removal of the object 2 within apredetermined distance of removal. The adjustment can also includearrangements for theft, designated by the removal of the object 2 byexceeding the predetermined removal distance.

In an exemplary embodiment, a sensor 3A is attached to the object 2 tobe protected. The sensor 3A comprises at least a digital/analog input,e.g., a microswitch or a security film for theft prevention as well asfor surveillance of batteries in a supply battery assembly.

The proximity sensor 7A reacts also to the approach of a person to theantenna 17, wherein the active distance, for example, can be two meters.Thus, registration can be made which indicates whether the personapproaching the antenna 17, the antenna 17 being located near theprotected object 2, is nearing the object 2 and also detects from whatdirection the approach is being made.

Further, this proximity sensor 7A registers by means of the antenna 17,the existing separating distance between the object 2, which has its ownsensor 3A, and the antenna 17. Thereby, it is possible to detect whetheror not the protected object 2 has been removed from the display case 6and to what distance it has been displaced from its original displayedposition. As mentioned previously, for example, a registration signalcan be emitted, in order to inform the user that the action, possiblyhis own, has been detected and registered.

Especially, by the responsive action of the proximity sensor (i.e. theseparating-distance sensor 7A), it is possible that an object-specificadvertisement and information for a viewer can be initiated. In a caseof a more remote distancing of the protected object 2 from the objectstorage position (this being on the display case or shelf 6) a theftalarm can be sounded or displayed to the appropriate business personnel.

Under certain circumstances, it is possible that additional trackingmeasures could be undertaken (e.g., a pursuit of the removed object 2could be carried out within the confines of the business withcorresponding signaling). In such tracking actions, the sensor 3A has afunction which may be compared to that of an integrated circuit which isimplanted on such an object 2, e.g., a transponder chip (RFID, RadioFrequency Identification).

In addition, the distance sensor 7A can register, by the use of theantenna 17, whether an approaching person is permitted or not, to bepresent in certain places or on certain equipment. Permitted personscarry an electronic key 18 with them, which sends correspondingcharacteristic data to the antenna 17 and therewith to the receiver 16.The receiver 16 can transmit this data to a supervisory database or tobusiness personnel via the monitoring and alarm apparatus 4. Thus, thereis provided a wireless testing of legitimacy with specially effectivecapacity for transmission.

The possibility also exists that the distance sensor 7A possesses aplurality of antennae 17 at one station of supervision. These antennaewould be so ordered that, in at least one instance, even the removalapparatus for the taking of the protected object 2 could be detected. Itis also possible that several antennae could be placed in apportioneddistances apart, for example, at intervals of five meters within eithera market or within such a spatial enclosure in order that a spatialpursuit of the protected object, especially for tracking purposes, couldbe carried out.

To the monitoring and alarm apparatus 4, a plurality of distance sensors7A can be associated whereby an antenna for each monitoring station canbe sent to one receiver 16.

It should also be mentioned that for the approach/disturbance sensor,even the conductivity of the skin and an electrostatic field can be madeuse of. In this operation, a transmission of data by means of the skinand otherwise a recognition of the change of an electrical field by aperson is possible. To implement such an arrangement, for example, atransmitter integrated into an electronic key 18 (FIG. 1B) can producean electrostatic field and radiate its signal onto the skin of a person,whereby this can even function without direct skin contact. By means ofmodulation of data on the signal voltage, which spreads itself over theentire skin surface, information or data can be transmitted, forinstance, which provides identification. From a practical standpoint,this can be constructed with the following background:

In the case of an active data transmission by means of the skin, small,bodily-carried transmitters produce an electrical field by means ofwhich, the coded data can be sent directly or capacity-wise to one ormore receivers. The transmitted information can in this way identify anobject or a person.

The reception of such signals is, however, only possible if the senderis equipped with apparatuses which are close to the body. As a result,it is possible that immediately circuitry processes are released. Thisprocess, or processes, can however be reversed. If these apparatuses areremoved and thereby the transmission is broken off, then appropriately,an immediate switch action occurs. Even the alteration of an electricalfield by means of an approaching person or the entry of a person into anelectrostatic field can be detected in this manner. In this way, theapproach of a person can be passively recognized, which can give rise toappropriate action. For instance, this can be used for the transmissionof the object information.

Excluding the active transmission of object information (advertising),passive detection of the approach of a person can be done withoutidentification of the receiver.

If on the object 2, which is to be protected, for instance, a sensor 3Ais installed with a transmitter, then upon theft of the object 2, thelocation of the stolen object 2 can be detected. This is possiblebecause the transmitter is installed on the (now stolen) object 2 andcommunicates to the skin surface of the person and thereby builds anelectrostatic field. This field, by means of a receiver, which may beone of many distributed in different locations in the, for instance,business can be received, so that a search of the stolen object 2 ispossible. In this way, by means of equipping the proximity sensor 7Aand/or the sensor 3, which latter is installed on the object 2 to beprotected with a transmitter, an electrostatic field can be produced,which field can be employed in various manners. The electrostatic fieldcan, as previously stated, be communicated to the skin of a person andused, for example, for the transmission of data. Otherwise, it is alsopossible that an evaluation of the change of an electrostatic field,which change has been instigated by a person, can be used for therelease of an appropriate action.

The sensor 7A can serve as a special proximity sensor wherein it will beinstalled as an instrument sensitive to a separating distance. Such aproximity sensor would be placed in the neighborhood of an object to beprotected and the separating distance between the proximity sensor andthe object, or between the sensor and an approaching person isdetermined and registered.

The measurement of separating distance can be utilized for, among otherthings, the emission of a signal. The eventual use could include theactivation of reporting a product specific item of information and/or aforewarning of a theft. If the product is removed and lies, forinstance, within a removal distance of two meters, it is possible that aregistration of the displacement can be given. Such a registration couldbe, for example, the activation of an orange LED lamp which would informthe person making the said removal that his action has been registered.If, for example, he removes the object to a distance exceeding twometers, i.e. from the proximity sensor, then this would be evaluated astheft and an alarm released.

Upon the approach of a person to the said object, the possibility existsthat simultaneously with forewarning, the said information regarding thestate of the product could be emitted. The proximity sensor can also bedesigned so that it would react to any touching or disturbance of thesaid protected object. The emission of an action can, in this way, bereleased by an approach to, removal of, or disturbance of the protectedobject.

It should be understood that it is within the broadest scope of thepreferred embodiment to include the use of the non-contact sensor 7A ofFIG. 1B into the system depicted in FIG. 1. Thus, the non-contact sensor7A (FIG. 1B) can be substituted for the tethered configuration of FIG.1.

FIGS. 3-6 depict another feature of the system and method of thepreferred embodiment: charging or powering the electronic devices ondisplay. Thus, not only is theft protection and advertisement providedby the system and method of the preferred embodiment but so is thepowering of these devices. By way of example only, eight cellular phonesthat are displayed can be powered through a switch box 20 which isconnected to a single power supply. Under the control of a multiplexer22 connected to the CMS, the switch box 20 alternates the charging ofthe 8 phones every predetermined number of minutes (this time intervalcan be modified as desired) so that a smaller power supply can be used(2 pole). The eight cell phones may be connected to the switch box 20via eight, 6-pole conductors wherein the switch box 20 is controlled viaeight, 4-pole conductors. Alternatively, constant charging of allproducts could be possible as well with a stronger power supply. Eachdisplayed cell phone is connected to one sensor (e.g., via adhesive pad)which secures and charges the product.

The preferred embodiment may be configured as a display system fordisplaying several merchandise items. The display system includes adisplay area to display the merchandise items to allow a customer tohandle the merchandise items. The display system includes a merchandiseitem charger and a multiplexer. The merchandise item charger provides acharging signal while the multiplexer is configured to provide thecharging signal to one or more of the merchandise items on a multiplexedbasis. The multiplexer can be configured to provide the charging signalto the plurality of merchandise items on a round-robin time multiplexedbasis with a time period. In one configuration, each merchandise item ischarged for the time period in a sequential order.

Additionally, the merchandise item charger can be configured to providea fixed charging signal. When the charger provides a fixed chargingsignal, the multiplexer is configured to provide the fixed chargingsignal to one or more merchandise items in a time period. For example,if the charger provides a fixed charging signal of 1 ampere (A), thenthe charger could provide the charging signal to two merchandise timesthat each take one half ampere (½ A) of charging current. During thenext time period, the charger could provide the charging signal to threemerchandise times that each take one third ampere (⅓ A) of chargingcurrent.

The display system can also be implemented with a switch box that has aplurality of ports. Tethers similar to those discussed earlier can beconnected between at least some of the ports and the merchandise items.When the system includes tethers, the multiplexer is configured toprovide the charging signal to the merchandise items through theplurality of tethers.

The multiplexer of the display system can include detection logic. Thedetection logic is configured to determine when a merchandise item isconnected to one of the ports through a tether. The multiplexer will notprovide the charging signal to a port when a merchandise item is notconnected to one of the ports through a tether. This saves energy by notproviding the charging current to a port that is not connected to amerchandise item.

The display system may further include handling detection logic and adisplay. Similar to detecting handling as discussed earlier, thehandling detection logic is configured to detect a selected merchandiseitem being handled by the customer. The display is configured to displayaudio information and video information about the selected merchandiseitem when the selected merchandise item is detected as being handled bythe customer. This allows the display to provide information tailored tothe merchandise item that a customer is handling which may in turnprompt the customer to purchase the selected merchandise item.

The display system may include a system charger and alarm logic. Thesystem charger is configured to provide power to the display and thedetection logic. The system charger will in general power the displaysystem but will not provide power to the merchandise items on display.The alarm logic is configured to generate an alarm when one of: thesystem charger and the merchandise item charger loses power. The alarmlogic is configured to not generate the alarm when both the systemcharger and the merchandise item charger lose power. By generating analarm when only one of these conditions exist, an alarm is not generatedwhen everything loses power such as during a store-wide power outage. Athief of the merchandise items is more likely to disable one of the twopower supplies rather than both power supplies at the same time. Thesystem can also be configured to generate an alarm when one or more ofthe merchandise items are removed from a corresponding tether.

The preferred embodiment is shown in a configuration in FIGS. 3-6 usingthe CMS (including product information devices 13), transmitter 4A andother wireless receivers 4B, as shown in FIG. 1. However, in thisconfiguration, the ability to power the electronic device on display, aswell as the theft alert detection, are provided via the tether. Inparticular, as shown in FIG. 4, the theft detection sensor comprisesproximity sensor or reed switch 42A (as will be discussed in detaillater) with cable 5 providing the sensor signal path. An electronicdevice cradle 27 holds the electronic device 2. An aperture (not shown)in the cradle 27 permits the insertion of a power jack 29 into theelectronic device 2 to keep it powered. A pair of fingers or couplingmembers 30A and 30B (e.g., molded to the back of the cradle 27) securethe power jack 29 as will be discussed in detail later. It should benoted that the back surface 31 of the shelf display 6 is shortened topermit the use of the cradle 27.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the power jack 29 in the unconnectedstate. The jack 29 comprises an outer housing 32 having a pair ofapertures 34A and 34B on opposing sides of the housing 32.Concentrically and slidably mobile within the housing 32 is an electrodeelement 36 for supporting power electrode 38 which receives powerthrough power conductor 24. The base of the electrode element 36 iscoupled to the base of the housing 32 using a spring 40. A proximitysensor, or reed switch 42A (attached to the inside base surface of thehousing 32) having an associated sensor conductor 5 includes acorresponding element 42B (e.g., magnet) attached to the base surface ofthe electrode element 36. In order to connect the power jack 29 to theelectronic device 2, store personnel need to pull the electrode element36 out of the housing 32 and to allow the fingers 30A and 30B to passthrough the respective apertures 34A/34B as shown in FIG. 6. This can beaccomplished by the person pressing the fingers 30A/30B at the neck 44(see FIG. 4) to spread the ends of the fingers 30A/30B and to allow thefingers 30A/30B to pass through the apertures 34A/34B and to capture thebottom surface of the electrode element 36 against the bias of thestretched spring 40. The electrode 38 can be inserted through theaperture (not shown) in the cradle 27 and into the power receptacle (notshown) of the electronic device 2. In this position, the proximitysensor or reed switch 42A is displaced away from the correspondingelement 42B. In this position, the signal conductor 5 conveys a“non-theft” condition to the alarm device 4. As a result, the electronicdevice 2 is being powered while an “non-theft” condition signal isprovided to the alarm device 4 and if a customer grasps the electronicdevice 2 and manipulates it, the removal sensor 7 is activated toinitiate the product advertisement. Should a thief attempt to disconnectthe electronic device 2 by jerking the device 2 away from the power jack29, or being savvy enough to squeeze the fingers 30A/30B together torelease the power jack 29, the electrode element 36 snaps towards thebase surface of the housing 32 due to the spring 40 bias, and theproximity sensor 42A detects the corresponding element 42B and reportsthe theft condition. Thus, by use of the configuration shown in FIGS.3-6, powering/charging, anti-theft and product advertisement initiationare accomplished.

It should be understood that it is within the broadest scope of thepreferred embodiment to include the powering or charging feature of anelectronic item along with the automated productadvertisement-initiated-upon-manipulation of/approach to the electronicitem, independent of the automatic transmission of the wireless signal100 from the transmitter 4A to the remote receiver 4B (FIG. 1).

Thus, some of the advantages of the system and method of the presentinvention are:

-   -   Reduces staffs work load (explaining products), helps them focus        on real service.    -   End customers do not have to wait to get product information in        case staff is busy.    -   Quick and detailed product information at a glance.    -   Helps customer make a qualified decision about which product        suits his/her needs best.    -   Extended offers (accessories) for individual products.    -   Retailer can rent out advertisement space to manufacturer        (during special promotions or “stand-by mode”).    -   No need anymore for “hard-copy” price labeling, product        information display; therefore more products can be displayed        (unless hard-copy labeling is required by law).    -   Possibility of customer-oriented display of secured products        together with product promotion.

Furthermore, it is within the broadest scope of the preferred embodimentto include the creation of statistics (e.g., via CheckPro Manager™)using the CMS as to which product was picked up the most, hit list,etc). This also includes the creation of hit lists regarding productinterest of customers/sales data/etc. in connection with merchandiseplanning and control systems and CheckPro Manager™ data. The statisticsad hit lists can be provided via Ethernet.

Because the electronics industry is constantly developing new hightechnology products and due to the complexity of the offered products,it is becoming more and more difficult for an end customer todistinguish between displayed items and decide which one would servehis/her needs best. However, by playing customized advertisements assoon as the product gets picked up by the customer this distinctionbecomes much easier.

It is within the broadest scope of the preferred embodiment to secure ofelectronic as well as non-electronic devices (e.g., bottles, razors,etc.) while still promoting the sale of these items.

Example methods may be better appreciated with reference to flowdiagrams. While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, theillustrated methodologies are shown and described as a series of blocks,it is to be appreciated that the methodologies are not limited by theorder of the blocks, as some blocks can occur in different orders and/orconcurrently with other blocks from that shown and described. Moreover,less than all the illustrated blocks may be required to implement anexample methodology. Blocks may be combined or separated into multiplecomponents. Furthermore, additional and/or alternative methodologies canemploy additional, not illustrated blocks.

FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 of charging merchandise items. Aspreviously mentioned, the merchandise items may be electronic devicessuch as cellular telephones, cameras or other electronic devices. Themethod 700 begins by displaying merchandise items at a consumer display,at 702, so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer.

The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis,at 704. For example, the merchandise items may be charged on a roundrobin basis. The charging can take place for fixed time periods that maybe equal time periods.

The merchandise items may be charged with an amperage value and thecharging can include charging corresponding numbers of the merchandiseitems requiring the amperage value of current during each of the timeperiods. As previously discussed earlier, if a charger may provide afixed charging signal of 1 ampere (A), then the charger could providethe charging signal to two merchandise times that each take one halfampere (½ A) of charging current. During the next time period thecharger could provide the charging signal to three merchandise timesthat each take one third ampere (⅓ A) of charging current.

The method 700 may include connecting one of the merchandise items to acorresponding tether. When a merchandise item is connected to a tether,the charging can include charging the merchandise items connected to thetether through a wire in the corresponding tether.

To save power, the method 700 may determine which merchandise itemsactually require charging and those that do not and then charge onlythose items requiring charging. Also, the method 700 can connect themerchandise items to corresponding ports of a switch box. To savefurther power, the method 700 then determines which ports of the switchbox are connected to the merchandise items and which ports not connectedto the merchandise items. The charging, at 704, then can includeproviding charging current to ports connected to merchandise items on amultiplexed basis and not providing current to ports not connected tomerchandise items.

The method 700 can also include providing a product information deviceconfigured to provide video content and audio content at the displayassociated with the merchandise items. A first power source can beprovided to provide power to the product information device. A secondpower source can be provided to provide power to the merchandise items.The method can then generate an alarm when either the first power sourceor the second power source loses power. The alarm is not generated whenboth the first power source and the second power source lose power. Thisis because a thief is likely to deactivate one power supply at a time,not both. Also, during power loss to a whole building were the displayis located, such as during severe weather, both power supplies will belost due to an act of nature so an alarm is not generated.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity,clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to beimplied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because suchterms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadlyconstrued. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the specificdetails, the representative embodiments, and illustrative examples shownand described. Thus, this application is intended to embracealterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope ofthe appended claims.

Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention is anexample and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown ordescribed. References to “the preferred embodiment”, “an embodiment”,“one example”, “an example”, and so on, indicate that the embodiment(s)or example(s) so described may include a particular feature, structure,characteristic, property, element, or limitation, but that not everyembodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature,structure, characteristic, property, element or limitation. Furthermore,repeated use of the phrase “in the preferred embodiment” does notnecessarily refer to the same embodiment, though it may.

1. A method comprising: displaying a plurality of merchandise items at aconsumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by aconsumer; determining which of the plurality of merchandise items thatrequire charging; charging only the plurality of merchandise itemsrequiring charging; and generating an alarm when one of the merchandiseitems is removed from the consumer display.
 2. The method of claim 1further comprising: detecting when one of the plurality of merchandiseitems is being handled by the consumer; and providing productinformation about the one of the plurality of merchandise items beinghandled by the consumer.
 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising:connecting a tether between at least one of the plurality of merchandiseitems and the second power source; and charging the merchandise itemconnected to the tether through the tether.
 4. The method of claim 3further comprising: detecting when the tether is removed from the one ofthe plurality of merchandise items; and generating an alarm when thetether is severed or when the tether is removed from the one of theplurality of merchandise items.
 5. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: connecting the plurality of merchandise items tocorresponding ports of a switch box; determining ports of the switch boxconnected to the merchandise items and ports not connected to themerchandise items, wherein the charging the plurality of merchandiseitems further comprises: providing charging current to ports connectedto merchandise items on a multiplexed basis and not providing chargingcurrent to ports not connected to merchandise items.
 6. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising: charging a portion of the consumer displaythat does not include the plurality of merchandise items with a firstpower source; charging the plurality of merchandise items at the displaywith a second power source; and generating an alarm when one of thefirst power source and the second power source loses power, wherein thealarm is not generated when both the first power source and the secondpower source lose power.
 7. The method of claim 6 where in the charginga portion of the consumer display that does not include the plurality ofmerchandise items further comprises: charging a video display.
 8. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising: charging the plurality ofmerchandise items at the display on a multiplexed basis with equal timeperiods of charging.
 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the generating analarm further comprises: generating at least one of the group of: anaudible alarm and sending an electronic alarm message.
 10. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising: connecting one of the plurality ofmerchandise items to a corresponding tether and wherein charging theplurality of merchandise items further comprises: charging at least oneof the merchandise items connected to the tether through a wire in thecorresponding tether.
 11. The method of claim 1 further comprising:detecting one of the plurality of merchandise items has been moved morethan a predetermined distance from the display; and sending an alarmwhen one of the plurality of merchandise items has been moved more thanthe predetermined distance from the consumer display.
 12. A system fordisplaying a plurality of merchandise items comprising: a display areato display the plurality of merchandise items configured to allow acustomer to handle the merchandise items; a merchandise item chargerconfigured to provide a charging signal; a charge detection logic todetermine which of the plurality of merchandise items need recharging;and a multiplexer configured to provide the charging signal to theplurality of merchandise items that need recharging on a multiplexedbasis.
 13. The system of claim 12 further comprising: a switch box witha plurality of ports; a plurality of tethers connected between at leastsome of the plurality of ports and the plurality of merchandise items,wherein the multiplexer is configured to provide the charging signal tothe plurality of merchandise items through the plurality of tethers. 14.The system of claim 13 wherein the multiplexer further comprises:detection logic to determine when a merchandise item is connected to oneof the plurality of ports through one of the plurality of tethers,wherein the multiplexer is configured to not provide the charging signalto a port when a merchandise item is not connected to one of theplurality of ports through one of the plurality of tethers.
 15. Thesystem of claim 12 further comprising: handling detection logicconfigured to detect a selected merchandise item being handled by thecustomer; and a display configured to display audio information andvideo information about the selected merchandise item when the selectedmerchandise item is detected as being handled by the customer.
 16. Thesystem of claim 15 further comprising: a system charger configured toprovide power to the handling detection logic.
 17. The system of claim16, further comprising: alarm logic configured to generate an alarm whenone of: the system charger and the merchandise item charger loses power,wherein the alarm logic is configured to not generate the alarm whenboth the system charger and the merchandise item charger lose power. 18.The system of claim 12 wherein the multiplexer is configured to providethe charging signal to the plurality of merchandise items on around-robin time multiplexed basis with a time period, and wherein eachmerchandise item is charged throughout the time period.
 19. The systemof claim 18 wherein the merchandise item charger is configured toprovide a fixed charging signal, and wherein the multiplexer isconfigured to provide the fixed charging signal to merchandise itemsthat need recharging in the time period.
 20. The system of claim 12further comprising: a plurality of tethers, wherein each of theplurality of merchandise items is connected to the display area with acorresponding tether, and wherein the system is configured to generatean alarm when one or more of the merchandise items is removed from acorresponding tether.